Notes from the Pote: June/July 2017

May was another busy month at El Riad. The Spring Ceremonial went off smoothly again this year under the direction of First Ceremonial Master, Jim Slater. Thanks to all that helped again, Ritualistic Unit, Directors Staff, Pote’s Aids, Culinary Unit, Provosts, Big Band, Chanters, Nobles, Divan and Ladies and many more. Without the complete team effort, none of what we do would be possible.

Next up was our patent screening clinic. Thanks to Roger Risty and the entire kospital committee team for all they did. Special thanks to the entire team at Orthopedic Institute (OI) that made it possible for us to use their facility and the staff that helped us with our patients to ensure another great day.

The Shrine Hospital Day Trip was on May 20 and led by Leo Baumgart along with others who accomplished a great visit to the Twin Cities Hospital. They had a great tour and enjoyed time to visit with the Twin Cities Hospital staff.

Now on to things in June and July. Parade season is now upon us so please make sure you have your parade request forms into the office before you head out.

Maury Richard and I will be making the trip to Rapid City to take part in the South Dakota Grand Lodge Meetings from June 15–17.

June 17 is the Pote’s All-Shrine Parade in Garretson, SD. Staging will begin about 9:00 a.m. and the parade step off will be about 10:15 with the parade starting 10:30. After the parade the Culinary Unit and Pote’s Aids are planning a nice oasis for us by the Garretson City Pool. More details to come please watch your emails for more updates.

Then it’s circus time once again: June 22 in Worthington; June 23 in Yankton; and June 24 in Winner. Please drive down and help if you have the time or just stop and enjoy the circus if you can. All are great summer shows.

July has us at home this year over the Independence Day holiday weekend for a nice change. Some of us will be in Daytona Beach, Florida, from July 8–13 for this year’s Imperial Sessions.

Now is not too late to plan to attend the Midwest Shrine Association (MSA) meetings in Bloomington, MN, from August 17–19. Please call the office for more information.

Lots going on again this summer please stay safe and have a fun summer!